Maresca is said to like a Premier League starplaceholder image
Maresca is said to like a Premier League star | Getty Images
All the latest news and transfer rumours surrounding Chelsea as they papare for their Club World Cup clash with Benfica.
In the meantime, the Blues will continue their efforts to recruit new players, and we are expecting to see new signings aplenty this summer. Here we round up all the latest news and transfer rumours surrounding Stamford Bridge.
Martinez option
Chelsea are being linked with a move for Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, with Enzo Maresca reportedly keen. Christian Martin told DSports, as spotted by SportWitness: “They want him as their starting goalkeeper. Enzo Maresca is asking for him, Willy Caballero, who is part of the coaching staff and trains the goalkeepers, has already given his approval. For now, Chelsea is a very reliable and precise option,”
Ole have reported that the keeper would prefer to join Manchester United this summer, but Chelsea may be more in need of a keeper, with Maresca not appearing very convinced by Robert Sanchez despite recent lip service.
Gittens contract plan
Chelsea are now said to be ready to offer Borussia Dortmund winger a six-year contract in a bid to snap up the winger. the biggest obstacle is agreeing a deal with Borussia Dortmund to sign the 20-year-old, but it seems there will be no problem convincing the player.
TeamTalk report that Chelsea are willing to offer Gittens six years plus the option of an additional year, providing they can agree a deal with Dortmund. It seems the Blues will have to meet Dortmund’s £55million asking price to get a deal done this summer.
Lavia on CWC campaign
Romeo Lavia has been speaking from the United States ahead of Chelsea’s clash with Benfica on Saturday. He told the club website: “We didn’t need to reach the knockout stage to realise what we could achieve at the Club World Cup. We felt we had a chance from day one; we’ve always had that confidence in ourselves. It wasn’t easy to get out of our group. I know you’ve heard about the weather and that was a challenge for all of us. We faced good teams, too, so we’ve had to stay focused and give our maximum. That’s what has got us through.
“Every experience we have out here – and back home – helps us develop as a team. Most of the boys are the same age, so we’re discovering new things and overcoming tough moments together. It’s what makes us stronger. I spend more time with the French-speaking players because it’s my first language, but I feel like I’m close to everyone. It’s a great group of guys and everyone gets along on and off the pitch. I feel that helps us in matches because you understand each other well.
“Don’t get me wrong, though: we all want to play. That competitiveness is natural and it comes with being at a club like Chelsea. You’ve got to be ready to give your best every day. It means everyone is giving that extra ten per cent, and that only helps push the team forward. I know there is more to come from me and I definitely want to show that in the weeks and months ahead.
“I feel good at the moment and I’ve played minutes in every game of the Club World Cup so far. I just have to keep on going because – and I said this recently in an interview – the biggest credit a footballer can have is being available. If you have that, then it’s down to the boss to make his decision as to whether or not you play. Obviously, I’ve known him longer than most in the squad and I really enjoy working with him. He has a very clear football philosophy and very clear ideas, and these match what I can bring on the pitch. I enjoy my football with him and feel he understands the players well, which helps enormously.”
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